Do You Have To Brush Veneers?

Veneers, although durable and resistant to stains, require consistent care for their lasting function and beauty. Daily brushing is crucial for your veneers for several reasons: First, it promotes comprehensive oral hygiene by caring to your gums and neighboring teeth, which can lower the risk of gum disease and sustain overall oral well-being. It also safeguards against potential surface stains that could diminish your smile's brilliance over time. A healthy oral care routine, including daily brushing, contributes to the extended lifespan of your veneers, ensuring your stunning smile remains for years to come.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are one of the most popular types of dental cosmetic procedures since they can effectively fix most aesthetic issues, from severe discoloration to misshapen and even cracked teeth. 

A veneer is a thin shell, usually made from porcelain, that is attached to the surface of a tooth. The porcelain will cover the imperfection, leading to a more pleasing smile. Veneers are custom-made to suit every patient and can be used to cover 1-2 teeth for minor changes or even achieve full-blown smile makeovers. 

What Happens If You Don't Brush Veneers?

Here are some of the issues you may encounter if you fail to brush your veneers: 

• The veneers can lose their shine: Porcelain is stain-resistant, but even so, not brushing your teeth can make your new smile yellow. Plaque, which deposits every single day, has a yellow hue, but it can eventually turn into tartar, which is much more visible.

• You may develop oral health issues: Daily oral hygiene is the best way to make sure you don’t get cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems. Veneers will not protect your teeth from them since they only cover part of the natural tooth.

• You may need to change your veneers sooner: If you don't brush your teeth, you may be cutting the average veneer lifespan, which is usually around 15 years.

How to Properly Care for Veneers

Want to make sure your veneers last 15 years or even longer? Then check out these simple tips:

• Brush your teeth at least two times a day, but preferably after every meal.

• Floss every day before going to sleep.

• Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from grinding, or if you play sports,

• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Cut back on hard foods, sweets, and sticky treats like caramel.

• Drink a tall glass of tap water or chew sugar-free gum after eating if you don't brush your teeth.

• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Don’t smoke, vape, chew tobacco, or use any similar products.

• See the dentist routinely for check-ups and professional dental cleanings.

With these tips, you stand a great chance to enjoy your new smile for decades.

Interested in Veneers? We Can Help 

Dr. Jonathan Siverson can help you find out if veneers are the right solution for you. Based on just a short oral health assessment, you can tap into a cosmetic treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and smile expectations.

Ready to get started? Then schedule a visit to Forest Lake Smiles online or call us at (651) 464-8207 to learn more about our cosmetic services.